Shivakumar Dismisses Speculation Over CM Change After Meeting Rahul Gandhi
Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar, firmly denied any discussions about a change in the state's chief minister during his brief interaction with Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. The meeting took place on Wednesday at Mysuru's Mandakalli Airport.
Airport Conversation Sparks Political Buzz
Rahul Gandhi was transiting through the airport while traveling to attend an event in Gudalur, located in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris district. Videos and photographs capturing Shivakumar and Gandhi engaged in an intense, exclusive conversation on the tarmac quickly went viral on social media. This visual sparked widespread political speculation about a potential leadership shift in Karnataka.
However, Shivakumar was quick to set the record straight. "I am the state Congress president, and he is the leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha," he stated. "These meetings and talks are as per protocol. Sensitive issues cannot be discussed in public." He emphasized that no discussions regarding a chief minister change occurred. Instead, Rahul Gandhi encouraged them to continue their good work.
Focus on Development and MNREGA
Shivakumar revealed that the conversation centered on development and political matters. A key topic was the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA). "We also spoke about what kind of progress is taking place on MNREGA. We discussed BJP's politics," he explained.
He also dismissed speculation linking a cryptic social media post—"efforts may fail, but prayers won't"—to his talk with Gandhi. Shivakumar clarified that the post was unrelated to their meeting.
Upcoming Delhi Visit and Cabinet Reshuffle Talks
Shivakumar announced plans to visit Delhi on Friday. Earlier, Congress MLA Ashok Pattan mentioned that Rahul Gandhi had asked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to visit Delhi, though the exact date remains unconfirmed. Pattan suggested the visit might occur after Sankranti, adding optimistically, "everything will be fine after they visit Delhi."
On the topic of a potential cabinet reshuffle, Pattan expressed a common desire within the party. "There is a desire for a cabinet reshuffle. We all want it. I am also an aspirant for a ministerial post," he admitted. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had previously stated that the party high command would summon both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar when necessary.
This series of events highlights the ongoing political dynamics within the Karnataka Congress, with leadership and cabinet positions under scrutiny despite official denials of immediate changes.
